Château Haut Vignoble Seguin Saint-Estèphe 2017

Winery Background and History

Château Haut Vignoble Seguin is a historic estate located in the Saint-Estèphe appellation of Bordeaux, France. Established in the 18th century, the château has been producing wines that reflect the unique terroir of the region for centuries. The estate is part of the Castéja family’s portfolio, a prominent name in Bordeaux winemaking, who also own other renowned properties such as Château Beau-Site, Château Batailley, and Château Lynch-Moussas. The Castéja family has been instrumental in maintaining the estate’s reputation, ensuring that traditional winemaking techniques are preserved while embracing modern innovations to enhance wine quality.

Producer and Winemaker

Under the stewardship of the Castéja family, Château Haut Vignoble Seguin benefits from the expertise of experienced winemakers dedicated to crafting wines that embody the essence of Saint-Estèphe. The family’s commitment to excellence is evident in their meticulous vineyard management and careful vinification processes, resulting in wines that consistently garner acclaim from critics and enthusiasts alike.

Vineyards and Micro Climate

The vineyards of Château Haut Vignoble Seguin are situated in the northern part of the Saint-Estèphe appellation, near the Gironde estuary. This proximity to the estuary provides a moderating effect on the climate, protecting the vines from extreme temperatures and fostering a conducive environment for grape maturation. The 40-hectare vineyard is planted predominantly with Cabernet Sauvignon (70%), complemented by Merlot (24%), Cabernet Franc (4%), and Petit Verdot (2%). The soil composition is a mix of gravel, clay, and sand, which offers excellent drainage and contributes to the development of deep root systems. The combination of well-draining soils and the microclimate influenced by the estuary allows for the cultivation of grapes that are rich in flavor and complexity. The estate employs sustainable viticultural practices, focusing on maintaining the health of the vines and the surrounding ecosystem.

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used

• Cabernet Sauvignon: 70%

• Merlot: 24%

• Cabernet Franc: 4%

• Petit Verdot: 2%

Vinification & Aging Methods

The winemaking process at Château Haut Vignoble Seguin begins with the manual harvesting of grapes to ensure optimal ripeness and selection. Upon arrival at the winery, the grapes undergo destemming and are transferred into traditional rectangular-shaped cement vats for fermentation. This choice of vessel allows for precise temperature control and promotes a gentle extraction of flavors, colors, and tannins. The fermentation process is closely monitored, with regular punch-downs and pump-overs to enhance the wine’s structure and complexity. Following fermentation, malolactic fermentation occurs in the vats, softening the wine’s acidity and contributing to a rounder mouthfeel. The wine is then aged in French oak barrels, with approximately 50% being new oak, for a period ranging from 12 to 15 months. This aging process imparts subtle oak nuances and allows the wine to develop additional layers of complexity. Before bottling, the wine is fined and filtered to ensure clarity and stability.

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

14.5%

Tasting Notes

The 2017 vintage of Château Haut Vignoble Seguin presents a garnet hue with a complex bouquet. The nose is characterized by pronounced woody aromas, featuring notes of toasted oak, potpourri, dried flowers, and a hint of eucalyptus. On the palate, the wine offers a velvety attack with subtle mocha flavors, supported by long, rich tannins that provide a full-bodied mouthfeel. The finish is robust, showcasing lingering notes of roasted coffee, licorice, and a touch of tobacco, indicative of its aging potential.

Food & Wine Pairing

This Saint-Estèphe wine pairs exceptionally well with hearty dishes. It complements red meats such as grilled ribeye or roasted lamb, as well as game dishes like venison stew. The wine’s robust structure and tannic profile also make it a suitable match for strong cheeses, including aged cheddar or blue cheese. For a classic pairing, consider serving it alongside a traditional beef Wellington or duck confit, where the wine’s depth and complexity can enhance the rich flavors of the dish.

Service Methods and Temperatures

To fully appreciate the nuances of the 2017 Château Haut Vignoble Seguin, it is recommended to serve the wine at a temperature of 18°C (64°F). Decanting the wine for approximately one hour prior to serving will allow it to open up, releasing its aromatic potential and softening the tannins for a more harmonious tasting experience. Use of large, Bordeaux-style wine glasses is advisable to concentrate the wine’s aromas and direct them towards the nose.

Storage and Aging Potential

Stored under optimal conditions—consistent temperature around 12°C (54°F), humidity between 70-80%, and protection from light—the 2017 vintage of Château Haut Vignoble Seguin has the potential to age gracefully for 10 to 15 years. As the wine matures, it is expected to develop additional complexity, with tertiary flavors such as leather, truffle, and earthy notes emerging, complementing the existing fruit and oak characteristics.